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Autism, The Facts

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that is caused by differences in how the brain functions. People with ASD may communicate, interact, behave and learn in different ways. Signs of ASD begin during early childhood and usually last throughout a person’s life.

Prevalence

About 1 in 59 children has been identified with ASD.

ASD is about 4 times more common among boys than among girls.

ASD is reported to occur in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.

Risk Factors and Characteristics

Studies have shown that among identical twins, if one child has ASD, then the other will be affected about 36-95% of the time. In non-identical twins, if one child has ASD, then the other is affected about 0-31% of the time.

Parents who have a child with ASD have a 2%–18% chance of having a second child who is also affected.

Children born to older parents are at a higher risk for having ASD.

Diagnosis

Research has shown that a diagnosis of autism at age 2 can be reliable, valid, and stable.

Even though ASD can be diagnosed as early as age 2 years, most children are not diagnosed with ASD until after age 4 years.

Studies have shown that parents of children with ASD notice a developmental problem before their child’s first birthday. Concerns about vision and hearing were more often reported in the first year, and differences in social, communication, and fine motor skills were evident from 6 months of age.

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Developmental Milestones

The signs of autism often exist before a child’s 2nd birthday. Below are some early social communication milestones that are important to look for as your toddler grows. (Source: Marcus Autism Center, NIH Autism Center of Excellence)